“This expedition improved my ability to appreciate the wilderness. I will notice so much more when I hike. I will look closely at each tree or bush for a nest, listen attentively to songbirds, and keep an eye out for animal tracks on the trail.”

“I was hoping to learn something about Etruscan history and archaeological technique and have an opportunity to really contribute hands-on. The expedition provided that and more. At the end of the day I felt I had worked hard and made a contribution. The staff was excellent—knowledgeable, professional, concerned that we understood the significance of the research project. They provided excellent training, showed concerns for our safety and well-being, and treated us with respect and appreciation. It was a fantastic experience all around.”

“What an amazing way to start our honeymoon! This was a great opportunity for my husband and me to really get to know Australia's flora, fauna, and people…Meeting other tourists as our time in Australia progressed, it was clear to me what a personal glimpse of Australia we got through Earthwatch. I felt like we saw the ‘real’ Oz, and I wouldn't trade that for the world.”

Teenagers who join us in the field also have great experiences to report:

“The leaders and staff are so great! They're all so smart and so open to answering any questions you have about science, animals, career fields, etc...I learned more on this trip than I do in a whole semester of school, and I am now more sure of what I want to be when I grow up, which is definitely a wildlife biologist.”

“I have gone to many summer programs and have been unhappy with pretty much all of them. I had often found myself counting the days until I could go home. I loved this expedition and didn't want to leave at all. I would love to come back next year.”

Julia B., Tagging the Terrapins of the Jersey Shore

“I realized that there are more possibilities than reading a textbook in class. I knew there were jobs and internships, but having the opportunity to experience marine biology through a trip like this opened my mind!”

And so do high school and college student fellows:

“Getting to work with such an amazing group of teens and scientists has changed me. I feel more open to learning about new science, and getting to work with this amazing team has made me more open to working in groups. Before I would work in groups but I would do all the work, and after this trip I feel like I can be a leader, and I can make a change for the better.”

“Through Earthwatch, I learned to embrace the wild side. Before this experience, I had only experienced forests on a really basic level, from going to Yellowstone and staying in a state park. This experience really got me to step out of my comfort zone and go somewhere I had never been.”

Students don’t have all the fun! In the words of teachers:

“Earthwatch is doing a lot for the hearts and souls of teachers. They are designing experiences that ask them to look more closely at the world and make connections to the bigger picture. It’s about giving teachers a chance to come alive and be role models for young people. It’s about changing lives.”

“My expedition had such a positive impact on me. First of all, being able to get involved with the biologist and to work with the leatherbacks was amazing. I also loved writing my blog so that all of the students and teachers at my school could learn about the leatherbacks and the expedition itself. Many teachers started their day by reading the blog to their students, and then the teachers would use this as an opportunity to learn more about sea turtles and ocean life in general. I felt empowered to be able to help so many students learn about the leatherbacks and to care about ocean life.”

“The marriage of funding cutting-edge research and involving students and teachers, spreading knowledge and building worldwide connections and friendship is unique and wonderful. I could not admire and feel more connected to the Earthwatch mission and vision.”

“I was amazed by the dedication, discipline, passion, and intrinsic motivation the scientists overall had. In that sense, I think, scientists can be role models for anybody in the business world. They show you how not to lose sight of long-term goals and the interests of their clients and all other stakeholders.”